What are your low MCAT options?
With a low MCAT score you have the following 3 options:
- Retake the exam.
If your score is too low to be considered competitive, it may simply be best to retake the exam. Learn from your previous experience. What went well? What did not go well? What can you do to make sure that you are able to prepare more effectively and take the exam with success? Most students know the answers to these questions. If you’re having difficulty identifying how to move forward, I recommend seeking out more guidance. If you struggle with standardized exams in general, taking more practice tests can help you come up with a better strategy. - Keep your score, as is, and apply to med school.
You can apply successfully with a low MCAT score, if you have a competitive science and cumulative GPA. If your GPA fits within the range of most medical schools and your MCAT is just out of range, it would probably be safe for you to apply. Medical schools do not reveal the full range of the scores that they accept. You only see their averages. Sometimes, these averages are inflated since schools compete with each other. For example, Harvard wants to claim a higher average than Yale, and so on and so forth. Do not be discouraged by the numbers that the schools report. - Apply to postbac programs that offer MCAT prep.
If you are feeling really lost and not sure how to proceed, you may want to consider applying to postbac programs that offer MCAT support. If you have a GPA that is in the lower range and an MCAT score that is less competitive, a postbac program may be the best option for you. In addition to taking a year or more of coursework to improve your GPA, multiple-focus postbac programs also offer a summer program that is focused on MCAT preparation. If you are from a disadvantaged background, there are programs designed just for you. With more support, many students are able to surpass even their own expectations. (Check this out for inspiration: The Unbelievable Story of an Orthopedic Surgeon)
For 25 years, Accepted has helped applicants gain acceptance to their dream healthcare programs. Our outstanding team of admissions consultants features former admissions directors, admissions committee members, pre-health advisors, postbac program directors, and doctors. Our staff has guided applicants to acceptance at allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) medical schools, residencies and fellowships, dental school, veterinarian school, and physician assistant programs at top schools such as Harvard, Stanford, Penn, UCSF, Johns Hopkins, Columbia, and many more. Want an admissions expert to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!
Related Resources:
• Applying to Medical School With Low Stats: What You Need to Know, a free guide
• What MCAT Score Do You Need to Get Into Medical School?
• Tips for Applicants With a Low MCAT Score
This article was originally posted on blog.accepted.com.
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